If you’re an avid golfer chasing better scores—or even a casual weekend player just hoping to make solid contact—a simple equipment change might give your game the boost you didn’t know it needed: switching to a low-compression golf ball.
But what exactly is compression? In basic terms, compression measures how much a golf ball deforms when struck. High-compression balls (think 90+) are designed for fast swing speeds—often over 100 mph—allowing those players to maximize distance and control. But if you’re swinging below that threshold—and the vast majority of recreational golfers do—a low-compression ball (typically rated 30–70) might actually perform better for your game.
Why Swing Speed Matters
When you don’t generate as much clubhead speed, you won’t compress a high-compression ball as much, and that means you’re losing potential energy transfer. A lower-compression ball, however, compresses more easily, allowing you to get more distance with less effort. Think of it like jumping on a soft trampoline versus a stiff one—the softer one gives more spring with less force.
Key Advantages of Low-Compression Balls
- Increased Distance for Slower Swing SpeedsThese balls help slower-swinging players (often seniors, women, or newer golfers) get the ball up in the air and carry it farther—without needing to swing out of their shoes.
- Softer FeelLow-compression balls tend to feel softer off the clubface, which many players appreciate on chips, pitches, and putts.
- More Forgiveness on Off-Center HitsTheir design often reduces the severity of sidespin, helping minimize slices and hooks.
- Better Performance in Colder WeatherCold temps reduce all players’ swing speed and ball compression—so low-compression balls are a smart seasonal switch even for faster swingers.
Is It Right for You?
If your driver swing speed is under 90 mph—or if you’re not sure and just want to experiment—it’s worth picking up a sleeve or two of a low-compression model (like the Callaway Supersoft, Titleist TruFeel, or Wilson Duo Soft). They’re often more affordable too, making them an easy way to test whether the softer side of golf is your new sweet spot.
In a game where small tweaks can lead to big improvements, the right golf ball might just be the most overlooked piece of your equipment puzzle.
Need help finding what golf ball is right for your game? Take our Golf Ball Fitting Quiz and find out!
